I’m my own worse enemy

It is easy to get depressed with the aging process as time passes. Who out there has some good ideas to help? I could use the information for myself. MargaretO

Am joining you on the waiting list for a fix. Have a phone call with nurse practitioner tomorrow for half hour appointment and typed a few pointers about what i have to talk about and have four pages! Talk about anxiety! Seriously tho am not sure what I would choose; physical or mental health problem... when I was going through depression i would have chosen a broken leg or ? ; then my body started to deteriorate/age and i thought gosh i would rather be sad and anxious: now I have both! How’s that an example of “be careful what you wish for”. This has been worst day for a while and as you say Margaret ageing doesnt help. Type of day going to bed wish wont wake up.. so many resources and ideas to help those with anxiety, depression and a multitude of mental health issues but its a big hill to climb, a mountain really, and quite a challenge. Hope some good ideas follow...

I'm hanging right in there with the rest of you regarding anxiety in general but also with the aging process. It doesn't help that I have White Coat Syndrome and start getting anxious when going to doctor appointments (blood pressure with always be elevated). I try to keep the Serenity Prayer close in thought, but that doesn't always help. I've always been a worrier and wish and pray to God to help me to overcome this undesirable characteristic. Some days are better than others. I have all of you in my thoughts and prayers as we make our way through our journey.
Namaste,
Cbell

I, too, am a worrier--and I hate that about myself, as I recognize it as a waste of time and effort, and it is exhausting yet prevents a good night's sleep. My husband says "hope, pray, and don't worry." Right. My level of anxiety makes me want to do nothing. Which means that I must force myself to DO ANYTHING to get through the day. It helps if that is physical and outdoors. What helps even more is doing something for someone else. But I must force myself to take that first step. I challenge us all to take that first step today.

I'm forcing myself today to go to the Senior Center. I joined several months ago and I have met many wonderful people there. It does make me feel a bit better once I socialize and also use the Fitness Room. I don't have children and I have siblings that live out of state. I was just told I needed cataract surgery so now I need to find someone who can help with that hurdle which is creating anxiety. I hate to ask anyone for assistance, which is another bad habit I need to overcome. I'm told that some individuals at the Senior Center may be able to help with transport the day of surgery and follow up appointment the following day (then the same for the other eye); which I'm tremendously grateful for if they can indeed help. I have offered my assistance to others in need of such services, as I feel we all need to stick together and help each other through trying times, but find it so terribly difficult to ask for assistance for myself.
Wishing all a wonderful day!!!

I had cataract surgery. It was wonderful because I could finally see. The procedure itself does not take long. Not too long ago I had to have a complete hip replacement and I did it. Before I had always prided myself on my independence. After this surgery I realized I had to ask for help. Now I do. That's when you realize the kindness of strangers. I have also availed myself of the benefits of therapy. When you find the right person (and thankfully I did) this can do wonders. Next summer I am really stepping out of my comfort zone and going on a short cruise by myself. And lastly in exactly one week I will be 89 and I live in my own home. Hang in and don't bash yourself.

That's wonderful you're doing so well!!!!
Hug enclosed,
CB

Your introduction line reminds me of a book written by the psychologist who changed my life; Dr. Franklin Truan. The book title is, My Enemy, Myself. It is an easy and interesting read, you can read in a day. I was 54, separated after 30 years of marriage, and had a lot of buried issues. I always knew something wasn’t right and after the 1st appointment I left thinking “finally, I’m going to deal with this!” And I did. We all carry around these irrational beliefs that are not healthy and are counterproductive. I actually believed that my own sons didn’t really love me, that they preferred being with their father. CRAZY! They adore me! I didn’t believe I was lovable. I’ve been on anti-depressants for over 20 years, and stimulants too. Working on tapering off all but 1. Alcohol a contributor too. I highly recommend reading Dr Truan’s book, and I’m sure he can work with you via Zoom. Good luck!

I know my mind has to be believing, my thoughts positive, my self talk calming. My physical condition is negatively impacted by stress in a downward degenerative spiral. My latest “undies in a bundle” involves renewal of my drivers license. I have balance issues while standing(ataxia), the DMV referred for me to get medical approval to have my license renewed. I texted my GP , and asked please, please don’t say I shouldn’t have a drivers license. Please let me take a road test to prove that I am in control when seated. Now I’m anxious what the GP will recommend. If I’ll be calm enough during the road test to do well.. and the most anxious producing concern is what in the h@ll I’m going to do if I lose my license.( I live alone, in a rural community with no public transportation)

What if doing "ANYTHING" to get through the day you decided since, "What helps [me] even more is doing something for someone else". So don't You see that being in the best shape (physically and mentally with restful SLEEP) you'll be in even Better position to help someone which you Like? Then there is no need to "force myself to take that first step. [Nor there is for} "I challenge us all to take that first step today."

Most good things in life we are made to gravitate toward, NOT having to Force. THIS is why when I go to bed I already have a plan for the next day {and beyond) Some call it purpose, a direction, a North Star that guides our life that we can look back and say no matter what age: Hey that was a life well-lived!
Good luck, friend.